Aliwal Shoal is regarded as one of the Top Ten dive sites in the world by non other than the famous Jacques Cousteau. Divers flock to Aliwal Shoal from around the world and sightings of the ragged tooth shark are almost ‘guaranteed’.
Aliwal Shoal is a short 40-minute drive south of Durban and 30-minutes from Port Shepstone and lies off the small coastal town of Scottburgh and the nearby village of Umkomaas. It is said that whales swam up the Umkomaas River mouth to give birth, and hence the name “Umkomaas”. The shoal is a fossilised sand dune, and lies 5 kms offshore. It comprises a variety of sponges, some soft and hard corals and a convergence of warm water reef fish and cold water fish. The boat trip to Aliwal is normally preceded by an exciting surf launch.
Climate: The climate on the north coast is mostly subtropical, with mild winters and hot summers. Rain is frequent during the summer months.
Summer Land Temp: 17-30’C
Winter Land Temp: 11-25’C
Accommodation: Campsite, hotels, self-catering chalets, lodges, back packers, B&B and guest houses are available in the nearby towns.
Activities in and around the area: Cultural tours, hiking trails, dolphin and whale watching, curio and coffee shops, fishing, golf, variety of water sports.
Shops and Service Stations: A variety of shops are available. Diesel and petrol are also readily available.